Tennessee special election tests GOP control in 7th District
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Republican Matt Van Epps and Democrat Aftyn Behn competed Tuesday in a special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District to replace Republican Mark Green. Van Epps led modestly in late polls and gathered high-profile support from President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson, who campaigned on his behalf. Behn emphasized affordability and drew national Democratic surrogates. Emerson College polling showed a 48%-46% lead for Van Epps within the margin of error. Voter turnout and demographic splits were cited as decisive. Results will influence House control narratives heading into 2026. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.
Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- July: Rep. Mark Green resigns, triggering a special election.
- October: Matt Van Epps wins GOP special primary with Trump support.
- Late November: Democrats report broader electoral gains; Behn highlights affordability.
- Monday before election: Trump calls into rally; Speaker Johnson campaigns in Franklin.
- Tuesday, Dec. 2: Special election held; attention turns to turnout and results.
- Articles Published:
- 10
- Right Leaning:
- 3
- Left Leaning:
- 0
- Neutral:
- 7
- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 70%, Right 30%
Republican nominee Matt Van Epps benefited from concentrated national GOP mobilization, endorsements from President Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson, and consolidated conservative messaging aimed at preserving the seat.
Democratic nominee Aftyn Behn faced intensified scrutiny over past social-media comments and progressive positions, which opponents and some national outlets highlighted during the final campaign push.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
No left-leaning sources found for this story.
From Center
Tennessee special election tests GOP control in 7th District
Fox News KTBS WSMV Nashville GV Wire Axios thepeterboroughexaminer.com WTVFFrom Right
RNC: Tennessee's Behn Hates Police, Wants to Defund Them
NewsMax The Daily Wire Washington Times
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